Australian Community Media is launching its latest survey of the habits of regional and rural Australians - and we are asking for your help.

The survey has been conducted regularly since 1997 by the research arm of the media company, publisher of this website. The most recent survey was two years ago.

The aim of the research is to better understand the issues, lifestyles and, particularly, the media habits of people living in regional and rural areas.

We are especially keen to hear from farmers or people associated with agriculture, but anyone who lives in a regional town is encouraged to participate.

REACH: We are wanting to hear from people who live in regional towns as well as those who live and work on farms.

In return for your time (about 25 to 30 minutes) you will be entered in a draw to win one of 10 $500 gift cards. If you help us further by answering more questions, you will go into the draw for an additional chance to win one of five $200 gift cards. There is a total prize pool worth $11,000 up for grabs.

Australian Community Media is Australia's leading independent regional and rural media business and was formerly part of the Fairfax Media and Nine groups. The ACM network of more than 160 newspapers and websites reaches into every state and territory.

ACM's agricultural research manager Karen Rogers said the results of this year's survey would be used to help the company better understand the needs of farmers and others living in regional areas.

RESULTS: The survey will be used to help ACM better understand the needs of regional and rural businesses and residents.

"We want to know the best ways to communicate with regional and rural Australians, to support them with the goods and services they need," Ms Rogers said.

"Our survey has become highly respected and trusted over the years. It is conducted on our behalf by a reputable research company, based in Australia."

CONNECTION: The ACM survey has been talking to farmers for more than 20 years.

Ms Rogers said maintaining the privacy of survey participants was a high priority.

"The survey is anonymous. Your details, should you provide them for the competition, will not be sold to third parties," she said.